Obituary: Patricia Reilly Giff

The following obituary of Patricia Reilly Giff is from Shaughnessey Banks Funeral Home:

Patricia Reilly Giff, loving wife of the late James A. Giff, passed away at home on Tuesday, June 22, 2021, with her family at her side. A native New Yorker, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Marymount Manhattan College, her master’s from St. John’s University, a Professional Diploma in Reading and a Doctorate in Humane Letters from Hofstra University, as well as an honorary doctorate from Sacred Heart University.

Pat was a reading teacher for over 20 years when she decided “It’s my turn to write for children.” She has written over a hundred books, including two Newbery Honor-Winning titles, inspiring children with hope and the message that we are all special.

Pat is survived by her two children, William Giff and his wife, Catherine and Alice O’Meara and her husband, James; her daughter-in-law, Laura Giff; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her son, James.

She was loved by her family and friends and was a mentor to many aspiring authors.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, June 28, 2021 at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Fairfield. To send an online condolence, please visit www.shaughnesseybanks.com.